Description
Mechanism of Action
Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Its anti-inflammatory action is due to the suppression of migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and reversal of increased capillary permeability. It may also be used as replacement therapy in adrenocortical insufficiency.
Absorption: Readily absorbed from the GI tract (oral); sodium phosphate and sodium succinate esters are rapidly absorbed but the free alcohol and its lipid soluble ester are slowly absorbed (IM); Acetate is slowly absorbed (intra-articular inj); absorbed from the skin (denuded areas).
Distribution: Crosses the placenta. Protein-binding: >90%.
Metabolism: Hepatic (metabolised to hydrogenated and degraded forms).
Excretion: Via urine (as conjugates and glucuronide, with small portion as unchanged drug).
MIMS Class
Corticosteroid Hormones / Eye Corticosteroids / Topical Corticosteroids
ATC Classification
A07EA02 – hydrocortisone; Belongs to the class of corticosteroids acting locally. Used in the treatment of intestinal inflammation.;
D07XA01 – hydrocortisone; Belongs to the class of weak (group I) corticosteroids in other combinations. Used in the treatment of dermatological diseases.;
S01BA02 – hydrocortisone; Belongs to the class of corticosteroids. Used in the treatment of inflammation of the eye.;
H02AB09 – hydrocortisone; Belongs to the class of glucocorticoids. Used in systemic corticosteroid preparations.;
S01CB03 – hydrocortisone; Belongs to the class of corticosteroids/antiinfectives/mydriatics combinations. Used in the treatment of eye diseases.;
C05AA01 – hydrocortisone; Belongs to the class of products containing corticosteroids for topical use. Used in the treatment of hemorrhoids and anal fissures.;
S02BA01 – hydrocortisone; Belongs to the class of corticosteroids used in the treatment of inflammation of the ear.;
D07AA02 – hydrocortisone; Belongs to the class of weak (group I) corticosteroids. Used in the treatment of dermatological diseases.;
A01AC03 – hydrocortisone; Belongs to the class of local corticosteroid preparations. Used in the treatment of diseases of the mouth.;
